The new WhatsApp trick that makes messaging faster on Apple's iPhone

However, the US tech firm has only recently opened this option to third party developers and WhatsApp has taken full advantage of the new feature.

The messaging firm has just released an update to its popular app that allow users to reply to messages directly from the homescreen and notification centre.

This means replies can now be sent without ever having to open the official app.

WhatsApp fans can now simply swipe from right to left over the message and send a reply from the pop-up window.

The update also brings a feature that allows users to reply to incoming WhatsApp calls with a message such as "can't talk right now".

Last month, WhatsApp also brought 3D Touch options to Apple iPhone 6s and 6s Plus owners.

This allows 'New Chats' to be started by simply pressing harder on the new touch sensitive display.

WhatsApp recently announced that it now has over 900million users making it the world's most popular messaging service.

(The Daily Star)